Learn about Hep Free VA and help us end viral hepatitis in Virginia

Viral hepatitis is an ongoing and nationwide public health concern.  Last year in Virginia, reportable viral hepatitis cases were the third highest reportable condition¹.  Only cases of chlamydia and gonorrhea were reported in greater number.  Untreated viral hepatitis can cause serious negative health outcomes.  This can include liver disease, liver cancer, and death.  However, vaccines and antiviral treatments can help to stop viral hepatitis.  Vaccinations are available to prevent hepatitis A and B.  Hepatitis C is now curable through a short course of direct acting antiviral treatments.

DDP has collaborated with a range of statewide stakeholders to create Hep Free VA.  This is Virginia’s Viral Hepatitis Elimination Plan.  The plan aims to eliminate viral hepatitis in Virginia by 2030 by achieving six main goals.

• • Goal 1: Prevent New Viral Hepatitis Infections
  • Goal 2: Improve Viral Hepatitis-Related Health Outcomes of People with Viral Hepatitis
  • Goal 3: Reduce Viral Hepatitis-Related Disparities
  • Goal 4: Improve Viral Hepatitis Surveillance and Data Usage
  • Goal 5: Achieve Integrated, Coordinated Efforts that Address the Viral Hepatitis Epidemics among All Partners and Stakeholders
  • Goal 6: Secure Sustainable Funding to Address Viral Hepatitis Epidemics

Read our full plan!

DDP is grateful to all the stakeholders and partners who joined us in this effort.  We look forward to continuing our viral hepatitis elimination work with you.

If you would like to get involved to end viral hepatitis in Virginia, please contact Colin Dwyer at colin.dwyer@vdh.virginia.gov or (804) 613-8228.

 

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¹ Virginia Department of Health. (n.d.).  Virginia Monthly Morbidity Surveillance Report.  https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/surveillance-and-investigation/virginia-communicable-disease-data/virginia-monthly-morbidity-surveillance-report-2018/